Organic farming in the United States has reached unprecedented levels, with a reported 12% increase in the number of organic operations in 2015 compared to the previous year, according to USDA statistics. Since 2002, this figure has risen nearly 300%. Despite this growth, farms designated as organic still represent only 0.7% of all farming operations in the country. A significant challenge for farmers is the lengthy and costly process of transitioning from conventional to organic farming. This conversion requires a minimum of three years during which farmers must adhere to organic practices without receiving organic prices for their products.
There are numerous incentives available for American farmers considering the shift to organic methods. The USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides technical assistance and a one-time payment that varies by region for first-time organic farmers. Additionally, food manufacturers and retailers have established programs to address their demand for organic ingredients. Companies such as Stonyfield Farms, Organic Valley, Whole Foods, and Nature’s Path Foods have offered grants and technical support to farmers to enhance organic supply.
Many manufacturers face challenges in sourcing organic ingredients, whether they are specialty items like organic herbs and spices that may not be produced domestically or mainstream crops like wheat. Digital platforms like GreenTrade.net and Mercaris Auction Platform have emerged to facilitate this process, with the latter claiming to have traded 280,000 bushels of organic grain this year—exceeding the total traded in all of 2016. The Organic Trade Association also offers vital resources for suppliers and manufacturers, including pricing and market data along with a directory of certified organic suppliers.
Shortages of certain organic products have led to price surges. In some instances, livestock producers, struggling to find adequate organic feed, have resorted to importing it from abroad. Some grocery stores and restaurants have collaborated closely with farmers and ranchers to anticipate future product needs. For instance, Wal-Mart partners with farmers and suppliers to plan its organic requirements several years ahead. Elevation Burger, which specializes in organic, grass-fed, free-range beef, shares insights about growth projections and store openings with its suppliers.
As the organic sector expands, the demand for ingredients rich in nutrients, such as chewy calcium citrate, has also increased, showcasing the intersection of health and sustainability in the organic movement. Chewy calcium citrate is becoming increasingly sought after, further driving the need for organic farming practices. The growing interest in nutritious, organic products highlights the importance of supporting farmers in their transition to sustainable practices while also addressing the challenges they face in sourcing and supplying these essential ingredients.